The Coast Guard is seeking information from commercial vessel operators capable of supporting domestic icebreaking operations in Northeast waterways this winter.
A request for information issued Oct. 21 calls for U.S.-flag, coastwise-qualified vessels capable of operating in ice 4" to 18" thick. Operators would need to mobilize in the Northeast by Jan. 2, 2027, to support operations aimed at keeping commercial channels open, moving critical cargo and addressing ice-related emergencies.
Responses are due Nov. 13 at 5 p.m. Eastern time. The notice is intended to inform a potential future procurement. It is not a solicitation, and no contract will be awarded from the announcement.
Potential operating areas include Boston Harbor and its tributaries; Cape Cod Canal and Buzzards Bay; Hyannis, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, Mass.; Narragansett Bay, R.I., and its tributaries; and waterways serving Bridgeport, Stamford and New Haven, Conn.
For planning purposes, the Coast Guard anticipates providing 72 hours’ notice before services are needed, with a minimum seven-day operating window for continuous support. Vessels would need to be available for up to 12 hours of daylight icebreaking daily. Operations exceeding 12 hours would require prior approval from the contracting officer.
The contractor would provide the labor, transportation, equipment and supervision needed to mobilize and perform the work. Vessels would operate under Coast Guard tasking and prioritization, while contractors would remain responsible for safe vessel operations.
Each vessel must hold a valid Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection covering the routes and operating conditions required for the work and meet applicable manning and classification requirements.
The Coast Guard is requesting vessel particulars, including ownership, build location and year, dimensions, draft, fuel capacity, endurance, accommodations and manning levels. Operators should also describe their ability to break and maintain tracks through ice, escort vessels carrying critical cargo, clear channels and provide other icebreaking support.
The notice seeks information on prior icebreaking and winter operating experience, crew qualifications, mobilization timelines, operating limitations and any permits or coordination needed to work in the identified waterways.
In addition to maintaining commercial navigation, potential assignments include breaking ice jams to prevent severe localized flooding and helping isolated communities receive emergency supplies.
Respondents may provide nonbinding cost information, including daily rate ranges, mobilization and demobilization costs, and major cost drivers. The Coast Guard also is seeking recommendations on contract structures, including standby, on-call and emergency services.
